Winners of the Chapter Level will represent Saline at the State Level Event in March.

AG SCIENCE FAIR CATEGORIES

Animal Systems ( AS )

The study of animal systems, including life processes, health, nutrition, genetics, management and processing, through the study of small animals, aquaculture, livestock, dairy, horses and/or poultry.

Examples:

Compare nutrient levels on animal growth

Research new disease control mechanisms

Effects of estrous synchronization on ovulation

Compare effects of thawing temperatures on livestock semen

Effects of growth hormone on meat/milk production

Environmental Services/Natural Resource Systems ( ENR )

The study of systems, instruments and technology used in waste management; the study of the management of soil, water, wildlife, forests and air as natural resources and their influence on the environment.

Examples:

Effect of agricultural chemicals on water quality

Effects of cropping practices on wildlife populations

Compare water movements through different soil typeS

Food Products and Processing Systems ( FPP )

The study of product development, quality assurance, food safety, production, sales and service, regulation and compliance and food service within the food science industry.

Examples:

Effects of packaging techniques on food spoilage rates

Resistance of organic fruits to common diseases

Determining chemical energy stored in foods

Control of molds on bakery products

Plant Systems ( PS )

The study of plant life cycles, classifications, functions, structures, reproduction, media and nutrients, as well as growth and cultural practices, through the study of crops, turf grass, trees and shrubs and/or ornamental plants.

Examples:

Determine rates of transpiration in plants

Effects of heavy metals such as cadmium on edible plants

Compare GMO and conventional seed/plant growth under various conditions

Effects of lunar climate and soil condition on plant growth

Compare plant growth of hydroponics and conventional methods

Power, Structural and Technical Systems ( PST )

The study of agricultural equipment, power systems, alternative fuel sources and precision technology, as well as woodworking, metalworking, welding and project planning for agricultural structures.

Examples:

Develop alternate energy source engines

Create minimum energy use structures

Compare properties of various alternative insulation products

Investigation of light/wind/water energy sources

Social Systems ( SS )

The study of human behavior and the interaction of individuals in and to society, including agricultural education, agribusiness economic, agricultural communication, agricultural leadership and other social science applications in agriculture, food and natural resources.

Examples:

Investigate perceptions of community members towards alternative agricultural practices